Endometrial Cancer
Overview
Endometrial cancer is the most common type of uterine cancer. It begins in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. The uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped organ in the pelvis where fetal development occurs.
Endometrial cancer is often detected early because it frequently causes abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause. When found early, treatment is highly effective, and surgical removal of the uterus can often result in a cure.
Signs & Symptoms
Endometrial cancer often produces symptoms early, which makes detection and treatment more successful. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to see your doctor if they persist or change over time.
Common signs and symptoms may include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods or after menopause
- Watery or blood-tinged vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
Causes
The exact cause of endometrial cancer is not fully understood, but it begins when healthy cells in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) develop changes in their DNA. These changes cause the cells to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a mass of abnormal cells called a tumor.
Over time, cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and may spread to other parts of the body. Researchers believe that hormone levels, genetics, and other factors may influence the DNA changes that lead to endometrial cancer.
Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing endometrial cancer. Having one or more does not mean you will get the disease, but awareness and regular screening are important.
- Hormone imbalance: Too much estrogen and not enough progesterone can raise risk, often related to obesity, diabetes, PCOS, or estrogen-only hormone therapy after menopause.
- Early menstruation or late menopause: Beginning periods before age 12 or reaching menopause later increases lifetime exposure to estrogen, raising risk.
- Never being pregnant: Women who have never been pregnant have a higher risk than those who have had at least one pregnancy.
- Older age: Endometrial cancer occurs most often after menopause, and risk increases with age.
- Obesity: Excess body fat can alter hormone levels and increase estrogen production, raising the risk of endometrial cancer.
- Hormone therapy for breast cancer: The medication tamoxifen can slightly increase risk; talk with your doctor if you take it.
- Inherited syndromes: Lynch syndrome increases the risk of both colon and endometrial cancer.
Prevention
While there’s no sure way to prevent endometrial cancer, healthy habits and informed medical decisions can help lower risk.
If you are considering hormone replacement therapy after menopause, talk with your doctor about the safest approach. Estrogen alone can increase risk, while combining estrogen with progestin may lower it.
Using oral contraceptives for at least one year may reduce endometrial cancer risk, with protection lasting for several years after stopping use. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.
Obesity increases estrogen levels and raises risk. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Treatments & Services
Treatment Options
Treatment for endometrial cancer depends on the stage of the disease, overall health, and personal preferences. Most cases are treated successfully when detected early. Common treatment options include:
Services Options
Supportive care services help patients manage symptoms, maintain strength, and navigate care throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. These services focus on improving comfort and overall quality of life.
Find Care
If you’ve been diagnosed with endometrial cancer or are experiencing symptoms, connecting with a specialist is an important next step. Find a provider or location near you to learn more about diagnosis, treatment options, and ongoing support.
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